Dental Hygiene and Your General Health

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay in children is on the rise. Almost 20 percent of children have untreated caries, and about 41 percent have decay in their primary teeth. Most parents know that good dental hygiene is essential for preventing cavities, but many may not realize how important it is to overall health. Brushing and flossing help prevent the build-up of bacteria-laden plaque that contributes to the gradual breakdown of tooth enamel, but research has suggested that dental hygiene also has a significant effect on blood vessels.

Can Professional Teeth Cleaning Protect Your Heart?

American Heart Association researchers recently shared findings demonstrating that good dental hygiene can actually reduce the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. A study that monitored 100,000 people over a seven-year period found that participants who had a professional teeth cleaning once every two years reduced their risk of heart attack by 24 percent and their risk of stroke by 13 percent. Researchers argued that routine dental care and good oral hygiene reduced the growth of harmful bacteria that cause inflammation in blood vessels and periodontal disease. The presence of specific bacteria known to cause gum disease is also associated with a rise in C-reactive protein, a marker for vascular inflammation.

The Fundamentals of Dental Hygiene

Dental care that starts in childhood may help keep your kids healthier for life. When a child’s first tooth erupts at around six or seven months of age, regular brushing and visits to the dentist should soon follow. Additional ways to protect your child from cavities include limiting sticky foods and starchy snacks, avoiding prolonged consumption of sugary drinks, and not letting them fall asleep with a bottle of juice or milk. As your child ages, be sure to make regular appointments with a pediatric dentist and dental hygienist.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Atlanta, call Imagix Dental today or make an appointment.

Imagix Dental and its affiliated practices offer affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Atlanta. Our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. Our practices provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover affordable dentists who truly care.

Dr.Lee is amazing. I had to get 3 teeth removed and each tooth took seconds!!! The longest part was waiting for the nova caine to work. Furthermore, I had 5 fillings done by Dr.Lee. Also, I need more […]

Brandy E.

love Dr. Butler, Sherry and Shikira and everyone else in the office. They have always been so kind and friendly and undestanding to me. I have medical issues that make it difficult to have certain […]

Sandy L.

My child is 3 and will go back each time by himself because the staff is so friendly and sweet to him.

Nathaniel H.

Very friendly and helpful staff. Nicest Dentist I have EVER encountered.

Billie D.

Excellent service, great staf, highly recommended

Lorin H.

My daughter is almost 2. The dentist had her lay across our laps so that she could examine her while she was still in contact with me. This made the visit very easy for us all. My daughter didn’t […]

Taylor S.

My husband HATES going to the dentist and he had a wonderful experience here. He even had to have a root canal done, and still came back raving!

Ali A.

I called with a dental emergency and they worked me in within 2 hours. Kim and the staff was super encouraging. Very grateful for the quick response and professional treatment.

Steve B.

Dental hygienist was great.

Wanda P.

Excellent staff!

Brian M.

Dr. Wright and the Ortho team are awesome. They are friendly, professional and always willing to answer any question!

Hannah W.

We did not have to wait. Friendly staff and exceptional service.

Cassius K.

The workers were very nice and courageous. Had no problems and at all and they made us feel right at home

Yasmine G.

Dr. Rigg went above and beyond to take care of me and my tooth. He was understanding of my situation and really went th extra mile to help me out!!!

Danielle S.

Wonderful staff. Great visit overall for my cleaning but did not get a customary goody-bag before leaving. Yikes!

Raymond H.

Dr. Larson was incredibly easy-going and made me feel incredibly comfortable during my root canal. Mike was also a pleasure to be around.

We accept most insurance plans and will be happy to help you understand the coverage that you have. We will do our best to see that you receive your maximum insurance benefits for all covered services.

The above-listed practice complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Notice of Nondiscrimination.